Common Causes of Corroded Pipes in Tulsa

Copper pipe corrosion can be caused by a variety of environmental and chemical factors. Here are some of the main causes homeowners in Tulsa should be aware of:

• High Levels of Chlorine in the Water
  Chlorine is frequently added to city water systems to purify and kill harmful bacteria. However, too much chlorine can have a damaging impact on copper pipes. Over time, this can lead to the gradual deterioration of the pipe linings, resulting in pinhole leaks and water discoloration.
• Corrosion from Rust Within the Water Heater
  Rust and sediment buildup inside your water heater can enter the pipework, contributing to the corrosion of copper pipes. This is especially typical in aging hot water tanks that haven’t been periodically maintained or flushed. The presence of rust particles hastens the corrosion process, deteriorating the pipes from the inside out.
• High Water Acidity (Low pH Levels)
  Acidic water can be particularly damaging to copper pipes. Acidic water slowly corrodes the copper, leading to the development of pinhole leaks and, ultimately, pipe failure. Residences in the Tulsa area with well water are especially at risk for this issue, as well systems can fluctuate greatly in pH.
• Bacterial Growth in Water or Soil
  Certain microbes found in the water system or soil can contribute to the corrosion of copper pipes. These organisms can form a slimy layer inside the pipes that hastens the corrosion process. Homes with underground piping or those situated in areas with contaminated soil may experience this issue more often.

Solutions for Copper Pipe Corrosion

If you’re seeing signs of corrosion, such as water discoloration, reduced water pressure, or constant leaks, it’s vital to address the issue as soon as possible to avoid further damage. Here are some approaches to look into:

1. Pipe Replacement
   For localized corrosion or isolated leaks, replacing the faulty pipe section may be enough. However, this is typically a short-term fix, as the underlying causes of corrosion may continue to the rest of the pipes.
2. Total Repipe
   For homes with extensive corrosion or aging plumbing, a full repipe is the most effective solution. Replacing the whole plumbing system with premium materials like US-made copper pipes or PEX will eliminate existing corrosion and stop future problems. Repipe Specialists offers all-encompassing repiping services in Tulsa, using only the best materials to provide a long-lasting, reliable plumbing system.

Stopping Copper Pipe Corrosion

Mitigating corrosion in copper piping requires ongoing maintenance and, in some cases, upgrading to more corrosion-resistant materials. Here are some preventive measures to fix corroded pipes in Tulsa homes:

• Install a Water Treatment System
  Using a water softening system or a water filtration system can help decrease the chlorine content and other damaging particles in your household water. This can significantly extend the lifespan of your copper plumbing system by minimizing the factors that cause corrosion.
• Regular Water Heater Maintenance
  Draining and flushing your water heater once a year to get rid of rust and sediment buildup can stop these particles from entering your plumbing system and causing corrosion. Routine maintenance also helps improve the effectiveness and lifespan of your hot water tank.
• Repiping as an Option
  If your home’s water pipes is over 20 years old or you’ve dealt with several leaks due to deterioration, it may be time to explore a repiping option. Replacing your existing copper pipes with a more corrosion-proof option like cross-linked polyethylene can provide a long-term solution to water system failures.